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Science News for August 4, 2017


A mathematical crystal ball gazes into future of prostate cancer treatment

International researchers developed a mathematical model predicting docetaxel discontinuation due to adverse events, incorporating five clinical factors. The combined model stratified patients into low and high risk groups, with the high group having more than double the likelihood of discontinuation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateAug 4, 2017

Software lets designers exploit the extremely high resolution of 3-D printers

Researchers at MIT developed a new design system that catalogs physical properties of tiny cube clusters, enabling computationally efficient evaluation of macroscopic designs. The system explores the entire space of properties to determine printable clusters, which can be used to optimize object materials and properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 4, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Lightweight catalyst for artificial photosynthesis

Scientists at Fuzhou University have created a macroscopic aerogel from carbonitride nanomaterials that catalyzes the water-splitting reaction under visible-light irradiation. The material offers excellent structural and electronic properties, making it suitable for artificial photosynthesis.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 4, 2017

How do birds get their colors?

A study in Physiological and Biochemical Zoology reveals that 32% of bird species have complex plumage patterns produced by melanins, not carotenoids. Melanins control pigmentation on a cellular level, while carotenoids require dietary intake and specialized structures.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateAug 4, 2017

Cell aging in lung epithelial cells

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich found that cellular senescence in lung epithelial cells can contribute to the development and worsening of IPF. Senescent cells secrete mediators that promote fibrosis and impair lung function by preventing cell division.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 4, 2017

Scientists discover unknown virus in 'throwaway' DNA

Researchers used Next-Generation Sequencing to identify a new viral lineage distantly related to herpesviruses in fish genomes. The discovery could lead to the identification of viruses in other species, potentially preventing outbreaks before they happen.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalVirus Evolution·DateAug 4, 2017

Scientists reveal source of human heartbeat in 3-D

A team of scientists has developed a way to produce 3D data showing the cardiac conduction system, enabling more accurate computer models of the heartbeat. This breakthrough will improve our understanding of troublesome heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation and help surgeons design operations with less risk of damaging precious tissue.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Financial decisions influenced by intensity of light

A study of over 2,500 people found that higher light intensity leads to worse decisions and increased inconsistency in monetary gambles. Luminance also influences risk attitudes, with individuals more likely to avoid known risks on high-light days.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 4, 2017

Sending the right signals

Dr. Warren Ruder is developing microparticles carrying engineered bacteria known as 'smart biomaterials' to reprogram mammalian cell signaling and influence disease outcomes. His goal is to use these hybrid biomaterials to better understand how cell signaling works and affect many diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 4, 2017

Origin of human genus may have occurred by chance

A GW researcher argues that the human genus may have originated by chance, rather than in response to environmental changes. Computer simulations suggest that clusters of species originations could be caused by random fluctuations, rather than a single broad-scale event.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalPaleobiology·DateAug 4, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Materials governed by light

Hybrid materials combining organic and inorganic components show promise for various applications, including optics and biomedicine. The materials display enhanced photophysical properties, such as anisotropic response to polarized light and artificial antenna effects.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateAug 4, 2017

Cultural activities may influence the way we think

A new study proposes that cultural activities, such as language use, affect our ability to collect data, make connections, and infer behavior. The research reveals that the brain's limited working memory can be beneficial in some cognitive tasks, unlike our closest relatives, chimpanzees.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2017

Tracing the path of Parkinson's disease proteins

A team of researchers has developed methods to observe and quantify misfolded proteins associated with Parkinson's disease entering neurons. They found that fibrils were actively engulfed by the cell membrane and transported to lysosomes, where most remained for days.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 4, 2017

Wildlife royalties -- a future for conservation?

A new royalty system for wildlife imagery could generate significant revenue for conservation efforts, particularly for carnivorous species like lions. The idea proposes that a portion of income from products featuring wildlife images be allocated to support conservation initiatives.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAnimals·DateAug 4, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

CU Boulder engineers develop thoroughly modern magnesium process

Researchers at CU Boulder have revamped a World War II-era magnesium production process that requires half the energy and produces a fraction of the pollution compared to current leading methods. The breakthrough could improve the production of strong, lightweight metal used in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateAug 4, 2017

UM researchers to study genome role in survival of plants, animals

Researchers will use genomic technologies to understand genetic basis of traits influencing wildlife and plant survival in changing environments. The project aims to advance understanding of how organisms cope with environmental challenges and develop guidelines for genomic interventions.

SourceThe University of Montana·DateAug 4, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Two weeks in the life of a sunspot

A sunspot, dubbed AR12665, was tracked by NASA's satellites as it rotated into view on July 5, 2017. The active region produced several solar flares, a coronal mass ejection, and a solar energetic particle event over its 13-day journey.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 4, 2017

$1.6 million grant to help African-Americans with glaucoma

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is developing an intervention to empower patients with glaucoma to take a more active role in their treatment. The study aims to improve communication between patients and ophthalmologists, leading to better medication adherence and reduced intraocular pressure.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateAug 4, 2017

New CDC funding for U-M injury center probes solutions to injuries

The University of Michigan Injury Center has received $2.5 million from the CDC to continue its research on preventing injuries such as opioid overdoses, concussion, and motor vehicle crashes. The center aims to reduce injury by publishing innovative research and translating it into practice for local communities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateAug 4, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Desert tortoises can't take the heat of roadside fencing

Researchers found that desert tortoises often overheat and die when encountering fencing meant to keep them safe from roads. The study suggests that designing and installing barrier fencing to minimize pacing and heat stress is crucial to prevent tortoise deaths.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalBiological Conservation·DateAug 4, 2017

UIowa study examines altered gene expression in heart failure

Researchers found that elevated levels of protein Cdk8 in heart muscle cells lead to declining heart function and heart failure. The study suggests modifying gene expression may provide a path to preventive treatments for heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJCI Insight·DateAug 4, 2017

Drug short-circuits cancer signaling

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have published a study on K-80003, an anti-cancer agent that prevents activation of the PI3K pathway, resulting in inhibition of cancer cell growth.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Clues about immune resolution identified in blood

Researchers identified a cluster of immunoresolvents in blood that activate immune cells, enhancing the immune system's ability to fight bacterial infections. This new profiling procedure has potential applications in distinguishing between cancerous and healthy tissue.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 4, 2017

Simultaneous design and nanomanufacturing speeds up fabrication

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method that combines design and nanomanufacturing to create optimal nanostructured surfaces for solar cells. The technique uses mathematical functions and machine learning to fabricate quasi-random structures, resulting in increased light absorption and improved efficiency.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Research into ultrafast laser technology could increase network speeds tenfold

A research team at the University of New Mexico is developing ultrafast laser transmitter technology that could send data at a speed of over 100 gigabits per second, ten times faster than current fiber optic networks. The goal is to enable high-speed communication in applications such as remote medical consultations and IoT connectivity.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·DateAug 4, 2017

Microbot origami can capture, transport single cells

Researchers developed microbot origami that can capture and transport single cells using magnetic energy. The system mimics nature and has potential applications in cell characterization tools and artificial muscles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 4, 2017

New mindfulness method helps coaches, athletes score

A new mindfulness program can help coaches and athletes at all levels develop a mental edge and improve their performance. The six-session program, developed by psychologists, combines education, discussion, and experiential components to increase mental readiness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 4, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New biosensor stimulates sweat even when patient is resting and cool

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed a novel device that can stimulate sweat glands on a small patch of skin, allowing for non-invasive biomarker testing. The device can predict sweat amounts, which is essential for understanding hormone or chemical measurements.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 4, 2017

Older adults with HIV: An overlooked population?

A growing population of older adults with HIV is being overlooked due to implicit ageism, which contributes to poor mental and physical health outcomes. The combination of stigma, social isolation, and negative expectations about aging can lead to depression, loneliness, and chronic disease.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 4, 2017

Immune cells may be key to better allergy, infection therapies

Researchers discovered a crucial role for enzyme ITK in the development of immune cells that help suppress excessive inflammation. By manipulating these cells, clinicians may be able to enhance treatment for allergies and block their development to treat viral and bacterial infections.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 4, 2017

Primordial black holes may have helped to forge heavy elements

Tiny primordial black holes could have destroyed neutron stars from the inside out, leading to the ejection of dense neutron-rich material that formed heavy elements like gold and uranium. This process would also explain several long-standing mysteries in the universe, including Fast Radio Bursts and positron emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 4, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Seasonal effects: 'Winter foals' are smaller than foals born in summer

Researchers found that winter foals were smaller than their spring and fall counterparts, suggesting a critical impact of reduced metabolism on fetal growth. Despite this, some benefits emerged from the study, including the potential for earlier foaling that can give young horses a head start in competitions.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalTheriogenology·DateAug 4, 2017

Why humans find faulty robots more likeable

Researchers found that humans take a stronger liking to faulty robots, which helps them understand and correct their own behavior. This finding has exciting implications for the field of social robotics, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfections in robot design.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateAug 4, 2017

Prior dengue or yellow fever exposure does not worsen zika infection in monkeys

A new study found that prior dengue or yellow fever exposure does not increase susceptibility to severe Zika virus infection in rhesus macaques. The researchers observed no significant differences in clinical factors between previously infected and uninfected monkeys after Zika virus infection.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 4, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Canadian-led study akin to antimatter forensics

A Canadian-led research collaboration reports observing spectral lines from an antimatter atom for the first time in a study published in Nature. The team studied antihydrogen and found that its spectral lines match those of hydrogen very well, which could provide clues about the nature of matter and antimatter.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature·DateAug 4, 2017

TESS mission to discover new planets moves toward launch

The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) will identify over 20,000 extrasolar planets, including Earth-sized and 'super Earth' planets. The satellite's four cameras have been mounted onto the camera plate and successfully demonstrated operation with the flight computer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateAug 4, 2017

New model for bimolecular reactions in nanoreactors

Researchers have developed a new mathematical model that describes how molecules are transported to react within nanoreactors. The model reveals that the reaction rate is not limited by molecule concentration, but rather by the shell's permeability, opening up possibilities for controlling chemical reactions.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 4, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New, more sensitive sensor for evaluating drug safety

A new technique uses a fluorescent sensor to detect stress on cells at earlier stages than conventional methods. The method can be adapted to detect protein aggregates caused by other toxins and diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.

SourcePenn State·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 4, 2017

Why is conducting research in some countries so difficult?

Researchers face difficulties conducting longitudinal epidemiological surveys in countries like Brazil due to inadequate funding and poor infrastructure. The study highlights the need for strategies such as working with community leaders, organizing group efforts, and using short instruments to overcome these challenges.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateAug 4, 2017